Uploading your website files to your hosting account allows your website to become visible online. This guide explains the different methods available for uploading website files using cPanel.
Whether you are uploading a simple HTML website, a WordPress installation, or a custom web application, cPanel provides easy and secure file management tools.
Method 1: Upload Files Using File Manager
Step 1: Log in to cPanel
Access your cPanel account:
OR
Enter your hosting login credentials.
Step 2: Open File Manager
- Inside cPanel, locate the Files section.
- Click on File Manager.
Step 3: Navigate to the Public Folder
Open the folder named:
- public_html
This is the main directory where your website files should be uploaded.
Step 4: Upload Your Website Files
- Click the Upload button at the top menu.
- Select your website files from your computer.
- Wait for the upload to complete.
Supported files may include:
- HTML Files
- PHP Files
- CSS Files
- JavaScript Files
- Images
- ZIP Archives
Method 2: Upload a ZIP File
For larger websites, it is recommended to upload a compressed ZIP file.
Steps:
- Compress your website files into a ZIP archive.
- Upload the ZIP file into the public_html folder.
- Right-click the ZIP file.
- Select Extract.
This method is faster and helps preserve folder structures.
Method 3: Upload Files via FTP
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) allows you to upload files directly from your computer using software such as FileZilla.
Common FTP Details
FTP Host
- ftp.yourdomain.co.za
Username
- Your cPanel username
Password
- Your cPanel password
Port
- 21
Recommended FTP Software
Popular FTP applications include:
- FileZilla
- WinSCP
- Cyberduck
These applications make managing large websites easier and faster.
Important Website Files
Homepage File
Your main homepage should usually be named:
- index.html
OR
- index.php
Without an index file, visitors may not see your website correctly.
File Permissions
Recommended permissions:
- Files: 644
- Folders: 755
Incorrect permissions may cause website errors or security risks.
Common Upload Issues
Website Not Displaying
- Ensure files are uploaded inside public_html.
- Verify your domain is connected correctly.
Internal Server Error
- Check file permissions.
- Verify .htaccess settings.
Missing Images or Styling
- Confirm all folders uploaded correctly.
- Check file paths and capitalization.
Security Tips
- Remove unused files.
- Keep backups of your website.
- Regularly update scripts and plugins.
- Avoid uploading suspicious files.
Need Assistance?
If you require assistance uploading your website or troubleshooting file-related issues, our support team is available to assist.
- Support Email: support@gatorhosting.co.za
- Website: www.gatorhosting.co.za
Our technical team can assist with website uploads, migrations, troubleshooting, and hosting configuration.